Nail problems and their solutions

Nail problems and their solutions: complete leadership

I. Introduction: Mirror of Health and Pillowness

Nails, often perceived as a simple detail of appearance, are an important indicator of the general state of health. Their appearance – color, texture, shape – can signal the deficiency of nutrients, internal diseases, and even improper care. Problems with nails not only spoil the aesthetic kind of hands, but can also cause discomfort, pain and reduce self -confidence. This guide is a detailed review of the most common problems with nails, their causes and, most importantly, effective solutions. We will consider various aspects, from fungal infections to the consequences of aggressive manicure, as well as offer professional advice on the prevention and maintenance of nail health.

II. Nail anatomy: understanding the structure for effective care

Before delving into problems, it is necessary to understand the structure of the nail. It consists of several key parts:

• Nail plate: The visible part of the nail consisting of keratin, protein, which is also part of the hair and skin. The nail plate has no nerve endings and blood vessels.
• Nail bed: The skin under the nail plate, to which it fit tightly. There are blood vessels and nerve endings that provide nail nutrition and sensitivity.
• Matrix: The base of the nail is located under the cuticle. In the matrix, new cells are formed, which pour old ones, as a result of which the nail grows. Any damage to the matrix can lead to deformation of the nail.
• Cuticle: A thin layer of skin that protects the matrix from infections and damage.
• Nail roller: The skin surrounding the nail on three sides.
• The midday (Lunul): The whitish semicircular area at the base of the nail, most noticeable on the thumbs. This is part of the matrix that shines through the nail plate.
• Hyponichia: The area under the free edge of the nail, which connects the nail plate with the skin.

Understanding the structure of the nail allows you to better understand how different factors, both external and internal, can affect its condition.

III. Common nail problems: classification and causes

Problems with nails can be classified according to various signs. Below is a review of the most common states grouped in the main categories:

A. Changes in the color of the nails:

• Leikonichia (white spots on the nails):
  • Reasons: Injuries of the nail plate (even minor), zinc deficiency (rarely), allergic reactions to varnish or other nails. It was previously believed that leakonichia is associated with a deficiency of calcium, but this is a delusion.
  • Solutions: In most cases, white spots disappear independently as the nail grows. Avoid nail injuries. If you suspect allergies, change varnish or varnish removal. With a long absence of improvements, consult a doctor to exclude other diseases.
• Chromonichia (a change in the color of the entire nail plate):
  • Yellow nails (yellow nail syndrome):
    • Reasons: Fungal infection (onychomycosis), smoking, the use of dark varnishes without a basic coating, lymphedem, chronic lung diseases, sinusitis.
    • Solutions: Treatment of fungal infection (see section on fungal infections). Refusal of smoking. Using the basic coating before applying dark varnishes. Treatment of concomitant diseases.
  • Green nails (green nail syndrome):
    • Reasons: Bacterial infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It usually develops under an exfolved nail plate or under artificial nails.
    • Solutions: Consult a doctor. Usually local antibacterial drugs or antibiotics are prescribed. It is important to carefully clean and disinfect the affected area.
  • Blue nails:
    • Reasons: Poor blood circulation (cyanosis), the effect of cold, taking some drugs (for example, amiodarone), silver poisoning (Argiria).
    • Solutions: Treatment of the underlying disease causing poor blood circulation. Avoid exposure to cold. Consult a doctor about drugs that cause a change in nail color.
  • Brown nails:
    • Reasons: The use of certain drugs (for example, tetracycline), the effect of certain chemicals, fungal infection, psoriasis, melanoma (rarely).
    • Solutions: Consult a doctor about drugs that cause a change in nail color. Avoid the effects of irritating chemicals. Treatment of fungal infection or psoriasis. If you suspect melanoma, consult a doctor immediately.
  • Black nails:
    • Reasons: Trauma (submarine hematoma), fungal infection, melanoma (rarely), hemorrhage under the nail.
    • Solutions: In case of injury – observation. If you suspect a fungal infection, consult a doctor. In the absence of an injury or a visible reason – immediately consult a doctor to exclude melanoma.

B. Changes in the texture and shape of the nails:

• Onycholysis (detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed):
  • Reasons: Injury, fungal infection, psoriasis, eczema, hyperthyroidism, chemicals, allergies to varnish or other nails.
  • Solutions: Elimination of the cause of onycholysis. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Keep the affected nail short and dry. Avoid injuries and contact with irritating substances.
• Onihoshisis (cleavage of nails):
  • Reasons: Dryness, frequent hand washing, the effect of aggressive detergents, injuries, iron deficiency, hypothyroidism.
  • Solutions: Moisturization of hands and nails. Wearing gloves when working with water and detergents. Proper nutrition, rich in iron. Treatment of hypothyroidism. Using strengthening nail varnishes.
• Bo lines (horizontal furrows on the nails):
  • Reasons: Severe disease or trauma, high temperature, chemotherapy, stress, starvation. The Bo lines are formed when the growth of the nail is temporarily slowed down.
  • Solutions: Elimination of the cause that caused the formation of Bo lines. Over time, they will disappear as the nail grows.
• Transverse crests (vertical lines on the nails):
  • Reasons: The normal process of aging, a deficiency of nutrients, injuries, psoriasis, eczema.
  • Solutions: Moisturization of hands and nails. Proper nutrition. Treatment of psoriasis or eczema. In most cases, transverse crests do not require treatment.
• Koilonichia (spoon -like nails):
  • Reasons: Iron deficiency (anemia), hemochromatosis, flamer-Washings syndrome, thyroid disease, systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • Solutions: Treatment of the underlying disease that caused coilonichia. With iron deficiency – taking iron drugs.
• Pahionichia (thickening of nails):
  • Reasons: Fungal infection (onychomycosis), psoriasis, trauma, hereditary predisposition.
  • Solutions: Treatment of fungal infection or psoriasis. In case of injury – observation. With a hereditary predisposition – symptomatic treatment.
• Onychogrifosis (bird’s claw):
  • Reasons: Trauma, poor hygiene, age -related changes, circulatory disorders.
  • Solutions: Regular haircut and nail file. Contact the extension for professional care.
• Involved nail (onychocryptosis):
  • Reasons: Incorrect nail haircuts, tight shoes, injury, fungal infection.
  • Solutions: The correct haircut of the nails (straight, without rounding the corners). Wearing comfortable shoes. Warm salt baths for the legs. In severe cases – surgical treatment.

C. fungal nail infections (onychomycosis):

• Reasons: A fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, yeast mushrooms or molds. Risk factors: nail injury, wearing tight shoes, increased sweating of the legs, diabetes, weakened immunity.
• Symptoms: Change in the color of the nail (yellow, white, brown), thickening of the nail, deformation of the nail, detachment of the nail from the nail bed, cringing the nail, an unpleasant odor.
• Solutions:
  • Local antifungal drugs (varnishes, creams): Effective for mild forms of infection. Long -term use is necessary (several months).
  • System antifungal drugs (tablets): More effective in severe forms of infection. Require a doctor and control of the liver function.
  • Surgical removal of the nail: In extreme cases when other treatment methods are ineffective.
  • Laser treatment: An alternative treatment method that can be effective in some cases.

D. Other nail problems:

• Paronichia (inflammation of the nail roller):
  • Reasons: Bacterial or fungal infection, trauma, skin irritation, frequent wash of the hands, pickles of cuticle.
  • Solutions: Warm salt baths. Local antibacterial or antifungal drugs. In severe cases – antibiotics. Avoid injuries and skin irritation.
• Warts under the nails:
  • Reasons: Human papilloma virus (HPV).
  • Solutions: Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen). Laser removal. Surgical removal. Local drugs containing salicylic acid.
• Nail psoriasis:
  • Reasons: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect not only the skin, but also nails.
  • Symptoms: Pits on the nails, thickening of nails, changing the color of nails, peeling of nails from the nail bed.
  • Solutions: Local corticosteroids. Systems for the treatment of psoriasis. Phototherapy.
• Yellow nail syndrome (see section on a change in nail color).

IV. Diagnosis of nail problems: when to see a doctor

Independent diagnosis of problems with nails can be a difficult task, since many conditions have similar symptoms. It is important to consult a doctor (dermatologist or mycologist) in the following cases:

• Changing the color of the nail, which is not associated with the injury.
• Thickening of the nail or deformation of the nail.
• Removing the nail from the nail bed.
• Pain or inflammation around the nail.
• Bleeding under the nail.
• Suspicion of a fungal infection.
• The presence of other symptoms indicating a systemic disease.
• Lack of improvement in self -treatment.

The doctor will examine the nails, collect an anamnesis and may prescribe additional studies, such as:

• Microscopy of the nail plate: To detect a fungal infection.
• Sowing to mushrooms: To determine the type of fungus.
• Nail plate biopsy: To exclude other diseases, such as psoriasis or melanoma.
• Blood test: To identify a deficiency of nutrients or systemic diseases.

V. Decisions and treatment: a detailed review of the methods

Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment. Below is a detailed review of various methods of treating problems with nails:

A. Drug treatment:

• Local antifungal drugs (varnishes, creams):
  • The mechanism of action: Inhibit the growth and reproduction of fungi.
  • Application: Apply to the affected nail and the skin around it.
  • Advantages: Less side effects compared to systemic drugs.
  • Flaws: Long -term use (several months), less effective in severe forms of infection.
  • Examples: Amorolfin (Loceril), cyclopyrox (batrafen).
• System antifungal drugs (tablets):
  • The mechanism of action: Suppress the growth and reproduction of fungi from the inside.
  • Application: They are taken inside as prescribed by a doctor.
  • Advantages: More effective in severe forms of infection.
  • Flaws: They can cause side effects (for example, impaired liver function), require control of the liver function.
  • Examples: Terbinafine (lamisil), itraconazole (arms), fluconazole (difljkan).
• Antibiotics:
  • Application: They are prescribed for a bacterial infection of the nail roller (paronichia) or with green nail syndrome.
  • Examples: Amxicillin, Cepalksin.
• Corticosteroids:
  • Application: They are prescribed for psoriasis of nails to reduce inflammation.
  • Output forms: Local creams and ointments, injections.
• Iron preparations:
  • Application: They are prescribed with iron deficiency, causing coilonichi or cleavage of nails.
• Drugs for the treatment of psoriasis:
  • Application: They are prescribed for psoriasis of nails to reduce inflammation and improve the condition of the nails.
  • Examples: Metotrexate, Acitrotin, biological drugs.

B. Surgical treatment:

• Removing the nail:
  • Application: In extreme cases, when other treatment methods are ineffective with a fungal infection or in severe forms of an ingrown nail.
  • Procedure: The nail is removed surgically under local anesthesia.
  • Recovery: It takes time to grow a new nail.
• Correction of an ingrown nail:
  • Application: For the treatment of an ingrown nail.
  • Procedures:
    • Review of the nail plate: Removing part of the nail plate growing into the skin.
    • Matrixectomy: Removing part of the nail matrix to prevent re -survey.
    • Installation of brackets: To raise the edges of the nail and prevent a growing room.

C. Laser treatment:

• Application: For the treatment of fungal nail infection.
• The mechanism of action: The laser beam heats the fungus and destroys it.
• Advantages: The non -invasive treatment method, less side effects compared to systemic drugs.
• Flaws: Several treatment sessions may be required. Efficiency may vary.

D. Other treatment methods:

• Photodenamic therapy:
  • Application: For the treatment of fungal nail infection.
  • Procedure: A photosensitizer is applied to the affected nail, which is then activated by the light of a certain wavelength.
• Cryotherapy:
  • Application: To remove warts under the nails.
  • Procedure: The wart is frozen with liquid nitrogen.
• Electrocagnus:
  • Application: To remove warts under the nails.
  • Procedure: The wart is cauterized by electric shock.

VI. Nail care at home: prevention and maintenance of health

Proper nail care at home plays an important role in the prevention of problems and maintaining their health. Here are some useful tips:

• Hygiene:
  • Wash your hands with soft soap regularly.
  • Wipe your arms thoroughly after washing, especially between the fingers.
  • Use individual manicure tools.
  • Disinfect tools for manicure after each use.
• Nail haircut:
  • Switch your nails straight, without rounding the corners to prevent a growing.
  • Use sharp nippers or nail scissors.
  • Sprinkle your nails with a soft file to smooth out the sharp edges.
• Moisturization:
  • Regularly moisturize your arms and nails with cream or oil.
  • Use special cuticle oils.
  • Apply the cream on your hands and nails after each wash of the hands.
• Protection:
  • Wear gloves when working with water and detergents.
  • Avoid nail injuries.
  • Do not pick the cuticle.
  • Use the base coating before applying nail polish.
  • Remove the nail polish with acetone-paying products to remove varnish.
• Nutrition:
  • Observe a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • Use a sufficient amount of protein, which is a building material for nails.
  • Consider the possibility of taking additives with biotin, zinc, iron and vitamin D if you have a deficiency of these substances.
• Avoid bad habits:
  • Do not bite your nails.
  • Do not use nails to open items.
  • Limit the use of artificial nails.

VII. Nutrition for healthy nails: key vitamins and minerals

Healthy nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the health of nails. Below are key vitamins and minerals necessary for strong and healthy nails:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Strengthens the nails and stimulates their growth. Contained in eggs, nuts, seeds and avocados.
• Iron: Prevents coilonichi (spoon -shaped nails). Contained in red meat, liver, spinach and legumes.
• Zinc: It is necessary for the growth and restoration of fabrics. Contained in seafood, meat, nuts and seeds.
• Vitamin D: Participates in the assimilation of calcium necessary for strong nails. It is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Contained in fatty fish, eggs and dairy products.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that protects the nails from damage. Contained in citrus fruits, berries and vegetables.
• Vitamin A: It is necessary for the growth and development of cells. Contained in carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach.
• Protein: It is a building material for nails. Contained in meat, fish, eggs, legumes and dairy products.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Improve the health of nails and skin. Contained in fatty fish, linen seed and walnuts.

VIII. Alternative treatment methods: folk remedies and home recipes

Some folk remedies and home recipes can help in nail care and alleviate the symptoms of some problems. However, it is important to remember that they do not replace professional treatment and should be used with caution.

• Lemon juice: Bloves his nails and strengthens them. Regularly wipe the nails with lemon juice.
• Apple vinegar: It has antifungal properties. Use apple cider vinegar for affected nails several times a day.
• Tea tree oil: It has antiseptic and antifungal properties. Apply tea tree oil to the affected nails several times a day.
• Coconut oil: Moisturizes nails and cuticle. Regularly massage nails and cuticle with coconut oil.
• Baths with salt: Remove inflammation and contribute to healing. Make warm salt baths for arms and legs.
• Baths with chamomile: They have a calming and anti -inflammatory effect. Make warm baths with chamomile for arms and legs.

IX. The effect of manicure and artificial nails on nail health

Incorrect manicure and frequent use of artificial nails can negatively affect the health of nails.

• Aggressive manicure: Excessive removal of the cuticle, the use of gross files, nail extension using aggressive chemicals can damage the nail plate and matrix, lead to thinning of nails, breakdown and deformation.
• Allergic reactions: Nail varnish, adhesive glue, varnish removal can cause allergic reactions that appear in the form of itching, redness and inflammation of the skin around the nails.
• Fungal and bacterial infections: Incorrect disinfection of tools for manicure can lead to infection of a fungal or bacterial infection. Artificial nails create a favorable environment for the propagation of microorganisms, especially if gaps form between an artificial and natural nail.
• Thinning of nails: Frequent use of artificial nails and means for their removal can lead to thinning and weakening of the nail plate.

To minimize the negative impact of manicure and artificial nails, follow the following recommendations:

• Choose qualified manicure masters who comply with hygiene rules.
• Make sure that manicure tools are disinfected after each use.
• Do not remove the cuticle completely, but carefully push it away.
• Use the base coating before applying nail polish.
• Remove the nail polish with acetone-paying products to remove varnish.
• Take breaks in the use of artificial nails to give nails the opportunity to recover.
• Moisten your arms and nails with cream or oil.

X. The latest research and development in the field of nail care

Science does not stand still, and new research and development constantly appear in the field of nail care.

• New antifungal drugs: New local and systemic antifungal drugs with higher efficiency and smaller number of side effects are being developed.
• Laser technologies: Laser technologies are being improved for the treatment of fungal infection of nails.
• Biomaterials to restore nails: Biomaterials are developed, which can be used to restore the damaged nail plate.
• Diagnostic tests: New diagnostic tests are being developed for earlier and accurate diagnosis of problems with nails.
• Personalized nail care: Methods of personalized nail care are developed, based on the individual needs of each person.

XI. Conclusion: the path to healthy and beautiful nails

Nail health is a reflection of the general condition of the body and the result of proper care. Understanding the structure of the nail, knowledge of common problems and their causes, as well as the use of effective methods of treatment and prevention will allow you to maintain the health and beauty of your nails for many years. Do not forget about the importance of balanced nutrition, hygiene and nail protection from external influences. If you have problems with nails, do not hesitate to see a doctor for professional diagnosis and treatment. Pay enough attention to your nails, and they will thank you with their healthy and well -groomed look.